Why it happens
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Hunting excitement
When it spots a bird outside the window, the cat freezes, the tip of its tail twitches and its jaw starts to quiver. Its body is getting ready for a pounce it cannot make.
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Frustration
The prey is right there, but a window or a net is in the way. Chattering lets off that tension, a bit like a person drumming their fingers impatiently on a table.
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Rehearsing the killing bite
Chattering is thought to resemble the quick bite with which a cat finishes a hunt. The cat is in a way rehearsing what it would do once it caught its prey.
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Imitating birdsong
One idea is that with these twittering sounds the cat tries to mimic birds and get closer unnoticed. It is unproven, but similar sounds have been heard from some wild cats.
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During play too
Cats chatter not only at the window: sometimes also at a toy on a wand, a fly on the ceiling or a reflection of light. It is the same hunting feeling.
What helps
- Let it watch Chattering is normal, and watching from the window is good entertainment. A comfortable spot on the sill or a cat tree by the window lets the cat bird-watch as long as it likes.
- End the hunt with a game After a long watch, offer a wand toy or a toy mouse the cat can chase and catch. That gives the built-up tension somewhere to go.
- Let it catch something A laser dot sets off the hunt but can never be caught. If you use one, finish by steering the dot onto a real toy or a treat the cat can grab.
- Safe windows An excited cat may leap at the window or the insect screen and fall out. Secure opening windows and the balcony with sturdy cat netting.
- A bird feeder at a distance A bird feeder in the yard gives the cat an interesting view. If it keeps the cat restless, crying or picking on the other cats at home, move the feeder further from the window.
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When it is a question for a vet
Chattering on its own is not a sign of illness. See a vet if the jaw chatters with no prey in sight, especially while eating, if the cat drools, paws at its mouth, has bad breath or no longer wants to crunch dry food: this can be tooth pain. If the head or body twitches at the same time and the cat does not respond to you, get help urgently.